Lake Dardanelle State Park

Lake Dardanelle State Park spans two separate areas along the Arkansas River with a large reservoir. The park features aquariums, a fishing pier, a swimming beach, and an extensive network of hiking trails throughout.

The park is a certified Trail of Tears National Historic Site, marking the route traveled by Native American peoples during their forced relocation from 1831 to 1859. This route represents a pivotal and difficult period in American history.

The visitor center features displays about the journeys of Cherokee, Choctaw, Muscogee, Seminole, and Chickasaw peoples who passed through this area. Today, the park honors their stories and the crossing point's significance in their history.

Overnight camping is available across two locations with a total of 75 sites offering different levels of amenities. Plan ahead if visiting during warmer months when the park sees more visitors.

The park houses a specialized pavilion for fishing tournament weigh-ins, the first structure of its kind built in the country. This facility reflects how important fishing competitions are to the local area.